Woodfuel Sector Explained

The woodfuel sector is a rapidly developing industry with a supply chain that includes landowners, boiler installers, architects, forestry agents and contractors, wood fuel suppliers and hauliers.

The Renewable Energy Strategy indicates that around 30% of the UK renewable energy target could be met by biomass for heat and power, representing a huge growth opportunity.

Buying Woodfuel

A range of companies and co-operatives exist to serve the market’s growing demand for fuel. From small-scale public or community organisations, to larger national and international organisations that supplies hundreds of thousands of tonnes a year.

Fuel is the major operating cost for any biomass system – as much as 90% of the total operating expenditure. It is important to deliver fuel in the most cost-effective way, and ensure that a good fuel supply contract is in place.

Model fuel contracts are available as a guide from the following websites:

Twice a year the Forestry Commission hosts a network meeting for woodfuel suppliers in England.

Forestry Commission Scotland employed Rural Development Initiatives (RDI) to conduct a survey of woodfuel suppliers across Great Britain to gauge requirements for and interest in a network for woodfuel suppliers. Over 100 people replied and the overwhelming response was for more support on lobbying, information, advice and training.